isolation valve

Abstract

An isolation valve includes a housing including a first passage and a second passage, a main valve assembly including a valve disposed in the housing such that a flow of fluid between the first passage and the second passage is blocked, a lock assembly disposed in the housing and including a release element configured to open the valve and a lock element configured to close the valve, and a spool assembly configured to be disposed in the housing and to operate the lock assembly. The spool assembly includes a coil, a core disposed inside the coil and including a space therein, the space including a closed end and an open end, and a plunger configured to move in the space by an electromagnetic force generated by the coil and to contact the lock assembly on the open end side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an isolation valve, and more specifically, to an isolation valve for an isolated fuel system used in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Hybrid electric vehicles include conventional hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). A key difference between PHEVs and HEVs is that PHEVs receive electrical energy from an external source to charge their batteries and use that energy to power the vehicle. Furthermore, PHEVs have a system that uses an internal motor to charge the battery, thus distinguishing them from battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

[0003] Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) combine the characteristics of electric vehicles and engines, and therefore need to be able to suppress the emission of evaporative gases produced in the fuel tank.

[0004] Figure 1 A fuel system 30 for a vehicle is schematically shown. (Reference) Figure 1 Because the gasoline used in engine 31 is volatile, it evaporates and becomes vapor gas while stored in fuel tank 32. When the engine stops, the vapor gas flows into canister 33, where it is adsorbed by activated carbon and collected. After the engine 31 has run for a suitable period, the purge valve 34 is opened. At this time, the collected vapor gas flows into engine 31 through the intake negative pressure and is then burned again in the engine. As described above, the operation of supplying vapor gas to engine 31 is called purge.

[0005] Specifically, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have a higher electric motor drive rate than engine drive rate, thus reducing the number of times the engine needs to be purged. In other words, in electric vehicle (EV) mode, where the engine is not running and only the electric motor is driving the vehicle, purging may not be possible. Therefore, especially when the vehicle is parked, the can may exceed its collection limit, leading to the release of evaporative gases into the atmosphere.

[0006] The information disclosed in this background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the background technology of this disclosure, and therefore, this information may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems related to the relevant technology, and the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an isolation valve with good isolation performance.

[0008] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an isolation valve that can reduce power consumption.

[0009] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an isolation valve that includes a structure capable of maintaining a closed or open state without consuming power.

[0010] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an isolation valve that can solve the problem caused by rapid pressure changes when the isolation valve is opened.

[0011] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the foregoing, and other purposes not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains (hereinafter referred to as "those skilled in the art") from the following description.

[0012] The features of this disclosure and the features and functions of this disclosure for achieving the purposes of this disclosure will be described below.

[0013] An isolation valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a housing including a first channel and a second channel different from the first channel; a main valve assembly including a valve disposed in the housing to prevent fluid from flowing between the first and second channels; a locking assembly disposed in the housing and including a release element configured to open the valve and a locking element configured to close the valve; and a spool assembly configured to be disposed in the housing and operate the locking assembly. The spool assembly includes: a coil; a core disposed inside the coil and including a space including a closed end and an open end; and a plunger configured to move in the space by an electromagnetic force generated by the coil and configured to contact the locking assembly on the open end side, wherein the plunger is configured to move linearly in the space from the closed end toward the open end and rotate by a predetermined angle when moving from the open end toward the closed end to selectively pressurize either the locking element or the release element of the locking assembly.

[0014] This disclosure provides an isolation valve with good isolation performance.

[0015] This disclosure provides an isolation valve that can significantly reduce power consumption.

[0016] The isolation valve according to this disclosure can continuously remain in a closed or open state without consuming electricity.

[0017] This disclosure provides an isolation valve that can solve problems caused by sudden pressure changes when the isolation valve is opened.

[0018] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly recognize other effects not mentioned from the following description.

[0019] It should be understood that the term "vehicle" or "of a vehicle" or other similar terms as used herein include motor vehicles in a broad sense, such as: passenger vehicles including SUVs, buses, trucks, and various commercial vehicles; water vehicles including various boats and ships; aircraft; and hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other vehicles using alternative fuels (e.g., fuels derived from resources other than petroleum). When referred to herein, a hybrid vehicle is a vehicle having two or more power sources, such as a gasoline-powered and an electric-powered vehicle.

[0020] The above and other features of this disclosure are discussed below. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The above and other features of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to certain exemplary embodiments of this disclosure shown in the accompanying drawings, which are given hereinafter by way of illustration only and therefore do not limit this disclosure, and in the drawings:

[0022] Figure 1 An exemplary fuel system for a vehicle is shown;

[0023] Figure 2 A fuel system for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle is shown.

[0024] Figure 3 A perspective view of an isolation valve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The front view;

[0026] Figure 5 It shows along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken by line A-A' in the diagram;

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A floor plan;

[0028] Figure 7 It shows along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken by line B-B' in the diagram;

[0029] Figures 8A to 8C yes Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of the image, in which Figure 8A This shows the status of the pressure regulating valve when the pressure inside the fuel tank is normal. Figure 8BThis shows that when the pressure inside the fuel tank is under overpressure, the positive pressure valve of the pressure regulating valve opens, and Figure 8C This shows that the negative pressure valve of the pressure regulating valve opens when the pressure inside the fuel tank is under-pressured;

[0030] Figure 9A A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a spool assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A Enlarged view of the dashed box;

[0032] Figure 9C This is a perspective view of a plunger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 10 The depth of the guide groove of the plunger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown;

[0034] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of a locking component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 12 The connection relationship between the spool assembly, the locking assembly, and the main valve assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0036] Figure 13A and 13C The downward operation of the plunger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0037] Figure 13B It is along Figure 13A A cross-sectional view taken from line C-C';

[0038] Figure 13D It is along Figure 13C A cross-sectional view taken from line D-D';

[0039] Figure 13E The upward operation of the plunger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0040] Figures 14A to 14C The following state is shown: when the plunger is operated downward according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plunger operates in conjunction with the locking assembly and the main valve assembly to open the isolation valve;

[0041] Figure 15A The state of the locking assembly's release element when it is pressed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0042] Figure 15B The following state is shown: the release element of the locking assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is fully pressed, thereby disengaging the latch from the slot;

[0043] Figures 16A to 16C The following state is shown: when the plunger is operated downward according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plunger operates in conjunction with the locking assembly and the main valve assembly to close the isolation valve;

[0044] Figures 17A to 17F The opening operation process of the isolation valve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0045] Figures 18A to 18D The closing operation process of an isolation valve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0046] Figure 19 The diagram illustrates energizing an isolation valve according to the related art and energizing an isolation valve according to the present disclosure to place the isolation valve in an open or closed state; and

[0047] Figure 20 The pressure change over time is shown when the isolation valve according to this disclosure is opened.

[0048] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and present slightly simplified representations of several exemplary features illustrating the basic principles of this disclosure. Specific design features of this disclosure (including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, locations, and shapes) will be determined in part by the specific intended application and environment of use.

[0049] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals throughout the several figures refer to the same or equivalent parts of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specific structures or functions described in the embodiments of the present disclosure are for illustrative purposes only. Embodiments based on the concept of the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms, and it should be understood that the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein, but rather includes all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives covered within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0051] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element. Similarly, the second element may also be referred to as the first element.

[0052] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as "connected" or "attached" to another element, the element may be directly connected or directly linked to the other element, or there may be an intermediate element between the two elements. Conversely, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another element, there is no intermediate element. Other expressions describing relationships between elements, such as "between," "directly between," "adjacent," or "directly adjacent," should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0053] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same parts. Furthermore, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that when the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are used in this specification, these terms specify the presence of the stated parts, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other parts, steps, operations, and / or elements.

[0054] This disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0055] As mentioned above, because plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) do not have a high engine driving rate, it is difficult to remove the evaporated gases collected in the tank by driving the engine. Therefore, in order to prevent the evaporated gases from being emitted into the atmosphere, PHEVs employ an isolated fuel system that isolates the evaporated gases in the fuel tank by increasing the rigidity of the fuel tank.

[0056] Figure 2 An isolated fuel system 10 is shown, and an exemplary isolation valve 1 according to this disclosure can be applied to this isolated fuel system for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Reference Figure 2 An isolation valve 1 is installed between the fuel tank 11 and the purge valve 12, and this isolation valve is always kept closed. In plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the engine 13 is purged very infrequently, so the vapors generated during EV driving and parking are isolated and stored in the fuel tank 11. Furthermore, the operation of the isolation valve 1 is controlled by the engine control unit. Additionally, a leak diagnostic device 15 configured to diagnose leaks is provided between the purge valve 14 and the fuel tank 12.

[0057] The isolation-type fuel system 10 suppresses or prevents evaporated gas in the fuel tank 11 from flowing into the pressurization system in the tank 12 by adding an isolation valve 1 at the rear end of the fuel tank 11. Therefore, there is a risk of fuel dispersion due to the increased pressure in the fuel tank 11 during refueling, so special control is required during refueling.

[0058] When a refueling request is received, the engine control unit opens isolation valve 1 to remove pressure from fuel tank 11. The engine control unit determines whether the pressure in fuel tank 11 has been removed based on measurements from pressure sensor 16 located in fuel tank 11, and refueling can only proceed after the pressure has been removed. Several characteristics of isolation valve 1 are required below.

[0059] First, the isolation valve should form an isolation system within the fuel tank and smoothly remove pressure from the fuel tank.

[0060] During refueling, approximately 0.7 to 1 ampere (A) of current is consumed when the isolation valve is opened, and the supply may only last for about 20 minutes at most. The power applied to the isolation valve is supplied by the vehicle's auxiliary battery (12V battery), which may cause problems with the auxiliary battery discharge.

[0061] Furthermore, intense heat is generated within the isolation valve when energized. Because the operation is not instantaneous, and due to the characteristics of the isolation valve as a solenoid coil, a significant amount of heat is generated by the coil while maintaining this state. Therefore, if the isolation valve is energized for an extended period, the valve casing may melt, or a fire may occur due to the generated heat.

[0062] To address the aforementioned problems, this disclosure provides an isolation valve that includes a structure that does not require continuous power to maintain the isolation valve in an open position. Specifically, by utilizing short-term energization, this disclosure allows the isolation valve to remain open after power is cut off. According to this disclosure, when the state of the isolation valve switches from an open state to a closed state or vice versa, the plunger of the isolation valve can be configured to rotate at an angle to selectively switch the isolation valve between an open position and a closed position. An isolation valve according to embodiments of this disclosure that does not require continuous power is described in detail below.

[0063] like Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the isolation valve 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a solenoid valve and a pressure regulating valve. The solenoid valve includes a main valve assembly 200 and a spool assembly 300, and the pressure regulating valve includes a pressure regulating valve assembly 400. In another embodiment, the isolation valve 1 further includes a locking assembly 500.

[0064] The main valve assembly 200, the spool assembly 300, the pressure regulating valve assembly 400, and the locking assembly 500 are all housed within the housing 100. In one form of this disclosure, the housing 100 may include a lower housing 110 and an upper housing 120. This specification will describe the housing 100 as divided into an upper housing 120 and a lower housing 110, but the housing may also consist of one housing or two or more housings.

[0065] The main valve assembly 200 is mounted in the lower housing 110, and the lower housing 110 includes a fuel tank-side passage 111 and a tank-side passage 112. The fuel tank-side passage 111 is connected to the fuel tank 11, and the tank-side passage 112 is connected to the tank 12. The fuel tank-side passage 111 and the tank-side passage 112 are configured to be in fluid communication with each other or to prevent fluid flow through the main valve assembly 200.

[0066] Furthermore, a pressure regulating valve assembly 400 is mounted in the lower housing 110. The pressure regulating valve assembly 400 is used to remove overpressure or underpressure from the fuel tank 11 when the main valve assembly 200 is in the closed position. For this purpose, according to an embodiment example of this disclosure, a chamber 113 is provided on one side of the lower housing 110, and the pressure regulating valve assembly 400 is housed in the chamber 113. In another form, the chamber 113 is configured to be in fluid communication with the lower housing 110 or the outside of the chamber 113. As a non-limiting example, the chamber 113 may include one or more vent holes 114. The vent holes 114 are provided in the lower housing 110 to allow communication between the interior and exterior of the chamber 113.

[0067] Furthermore, chamber 113 is configured to selectively fluidly communicate with fuel tank-side passage 111. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, lower housing 110 includes a flow path 115 communicating chamber 113 with fuel tank-side passage 111. Flow path 115 is configured to selectively open or close via operation of pressure regulating valve assembly 400. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, pressure regulating valve assembly 400 includes a positive pressure valve 410 and a negative pressure valve 420.

[0068] refer to Figures 8A to 8C A positive pressure valve 410 is housed in chamber 113. When the pressure in fuel tank 11 is within the normal range, the positive pressure valve 410 is in the closed position to prevent flow between the interior of chamber 113 and flow path 115. When the positive pressure valve 410 is in the closed position, it prevents flow through flow path 115 (in...). Figure 8A (The normal range may be -10 kPa to 28 kPa). In other words, when the pressure in fuel tank 11 is within the normal range, the positive pressure valve 410 is in the closed position.

[0069] When overpressure forms in fuel tank 11, positive pressure valve 410 moves to the open position. In the aforementioned example, the overpressure can be a pressure exceeding 28 kPa. Under overpressure, the pressure of the fluid on the flow path 115 side exceeds the restoring force of the spring of the positive pressure valve (which keeps the positive pressure valve 410 closed), thereby opening the positive pressure valve 410. When the positive pressure valve 410 is in the open position, the positive pressure valve 410 is spaced apart from the inlet of flow path 115 to form a channel for fluid flow. In other words, gas from fuel tank 11 flows into chamber 113 through flow path 115 while simultaneously being discharged through vent 114 (in... Figure 8B (The state in the middle). Therefore, the overpressure of fuel tank 11 can be removed.

[0070] When underpressure forms in the fuel tank 11, the underpressure can be removed by allowing air to flow into the housing 100 through the vent 114. A negative pressure valve 420 is installed inside the positive pressure valve 410. The negative pressure valve 420 is configured to communicate with the outside of the lower housing 110 via the chamber 113 or the vent 114 and the interior of the positive pressure valve 410 while moving within the positive pressure valve 410. When the negative pressure valve 420 is in the closed position, flow between the vent 114, the interior of the positive pressure valve 410, and the flow path 115 is blocked. Specifically, the negative pressure valve 420 is configured to block flow between the interior of the positive pressure valve 410 and the vent 114. When the negative pressure valve 420 is in the open position, underpressure in the fuel tank 11 can be removed when the vent 114, the interior of the positive pressure valve 410, and the flow path 115 are in communication with each other. Specifically, when a pressure deficit of less than -10 kPa forms in the fuel tank 11, air flows into the positive pressure valve 410, while the spring of the negative pressure valve, which is in close contact with both the negative pressure valve 420 and the positive pressure valve 410, is compressed. The negative pressure valve 420 is configured to allow air to ultimately flow into the fuel tank through the flow path 115 while simultaneously communicating the exhaust port 114 with the interior of the positive pressure valve 410. Figure 8C (The state in the middle).

[0071] Re-reference Figure 5 The spool assembly 300 is positioned above the main valve assembly 200. The upper housing 120 covers the spool assembly 300 and is connected to the lower housing 110.

[0072] The bobbin assembly 300 includes a core 310, a yoke 320, a bobbin 330, and a coil 340. The core 310 is fixed in the upper housing 120 by the yoke 320. The core 310 is inserted into the bobbin 330, and the coil 340 is wound around the bobbin 330.

[0073] refer to Figure 9AA space 312 is provided inside the core 310. A plunger 350 and a return spring 360 are provided in the space 312. The return spring 360 in the space 312 is configured to support the plunger 350, and the plunger 350 is configured to move within the space 312. The plunger 350 is made of a magnetic material. Therefore, the plunger 350 can be configured to move within the space 312 when current is supplied to the coil 340. A damping element 352 made of rubber is mounted above the plunger 350. The damping element 352 absorbs the impact force generated when the plunger 350 strikes the core 310 during movement and protects the plunger 350.

[0074] refer to Figure 9B The plunger 350 is configured to be rotatable while moving within the space 312. To this end, according to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the core 310 has a pair of sidewall holes 314. These sidewall holes 314 are configured to face each other within the core 310. A guide pin 370 and a guide pin spring 380 are provided in the sidewall holes 314. The guide pin 370 is configured to be movable within the sidewall holes 314 in a direction parallel to the sidewall holes 314 (i.e., in the horizontal direction). When the guide pin 370 moves to the outside of the sidewall hole 314, the guide pin spring 380 is compressed, and when the guide pin 370 moves to the inside of the sidewall hole 314, the guide pin spring returns to its original position.

[0075] At the same time, such as Figure 9C As shown, the plunger 350 includes a guide groove 354 with a predetermined path on its outer periphery. A guide pin 370 is configured to move along the path of the guide groove 354. Therefore, as the guide pin 370 moves along the path of the guide groove 354, the plunger 350 can move linearly and rotate. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the path includes a vertical path 1354 and an inclined path 2354.

[0076] The vertical path 1354 is formed in a direction substantially parallel to the axial direction of the plunger 350. Therefore, when the guide pin 370 moves upward along the vertical path 1354, the plunger 350 moves downward in the space 312. A pair of vertical paths 1354 can be formed, and this pair of vertical paths 1354a and 1354b are positioned symmetrically to the axial centerline of the plunger 350. In other words, the corresponding vertical paths 1354a and 1354b are positioned at a position rotated 180° relative to each other.

[0077] The inclined path 2354 is formed at an angle and slopes on the outer periphery of the plunger 350. The inclined path 2354 is configured to extend from the vertical path 1354 and connect a pair of vertical paths 1354a and 1354b. For example, the inclined path 2354 can be formed at an angle by connecting the highest point of the first vertical path 1354a (which is one of the pair of vertical paths 1354a and 1354b) to the lowest point of the second vertical path 1354b (which is the other of the pair of vertical paths 1354a and 1354b). Similar to the vertical path 1354, a pair of inclined paths 2354a and 2354b can be provided. This pair of inclined paths 2354a and 2354b is formed to be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axial center of the plunger 350.

[0078] like Figure 10 As shown, the guide groove 354 can have a different depth at each location on the path. This change in depth allows the plunger 350 to move linearly as it moves downwards, and linearly with rotation as it moves upwards. The depth of the guide groove 354 generally decreases as it extends upwards along the plunger 350 on the vertical path 1354, and the depth of the guide groove becomes greater at the highest and lowest points of the vertical path 1354 than in other areas.

[0079] The inclined path 2354 is also configured such that the depth of the guide groove 354 decreases from the highest point to the lowest point, and increases when the lowest point is reached. In other words, the depth of the guide groove 354 in the area where the vertical path 1354 and the inclined path 2354 intersect can be formed to be greater than the depth at other points, thereby preventing malfunctions such as movement in different directions (i.e., returning to the previous path when the path of the guide pin 370 changes direction). The guide pin spring 380 is compressed and stretched by the difference in depth between the guide grooves 354.

[0080] The plunger 350 includes a contact portion 356. The contact portion 356 protrudes downward from the lower portion of the plunger 350. The contact portion 356 operates the locking assembly 500, thereby directly operating the main valve assembly 200. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the contact portion 356 protrudes from the periphery of the lower portion of the plunger 350 by a predetermined circumferential length. For example, the contact portion 356 may be configured to have a length within a range of 180° in the circumferential direction of the lower surface of the plunger 350. The contact portion 356 is formed only on one side of the lower surface of the plunger 350, so the plunger 350 may be configured to alternatively press one side and the other side of the locking assembly 500 by rotating 180°.

[0081] like Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the locking assembly 500 is disposed between the plunger 350 and the main valve assembly 200. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the locking assembly 500 includes a retainer 510, a latch 520, a locking element 530, and a release element 540. The locking assembly 500 may be configured to occupy a portion of the space 312 of the core 310 while supporting the return spring 360.

[0082] Specifically, the retainer 510 may support the return spring 360. For example, the upper periphery of the retainer 510 may be configured to directly support the return spring 360. To this end, according to an embodiment example of the present disclosure, the retainer 510 includes a flange portion 512 extending radially outward from its outer peripheral surface. The return spring 360 may be supported on the flange portion 512. Furthermore, the flange portion 512 secures the retainer 510 to the inner wall of the core 310. In addition, the retainer 510 operatively supports the release element 540, the locking element 530, and the latch 520.

[0083] The retainer 510 is configured to have a generally tubular shape, and the latch 520 is received within the retainer 510. The upper end of the latch 520 includes a bent portion 522 curved at a specific angle (e.g., approximately right angle). The bent portion 522 may have a folding angle that can be changed by an external force. For this purpose, according to an embodiment example of the present disclosure, the bent portion 522 includes an insertion portion 524 formed at the end of the bent portion 522 and configured to receive a corresponding portion (e.g., a mating protrusion 544) in a substantially vertical direction, and the retainer 510 includes a groove 514 in its outer peripheral surface communicating with the interior and exterior of the retainer 510. Depending on the change in the bending angle of the bent portion 522, the latch 520 may be inserted into or disengaged from the groove. When the angle of the bent portion 522 remains constant (i.e., the bent portion 522 remains substantially parallel to the horizontal direction at 0°), the bent portion 522 is inserted into the groove 514. When the angle of the bent portion 522 changes, for example, if the angle of the bent portion 522 deviates from the horizontal direction by about 0° or if the bent portion 522 bends, the bent portion 522 inserted into the groove 514 gradually disengages from the groove 514.

[0084] A locking element 530 is disposed above the latch 520. A portion of the locking element 530 is received in and supported by the retainer 510, while another portion of the locking element 530 protrudes beyond the retainer 510. Specifically, the locking element 530 is supported on the curved portion 522. One side of the locking element 530 includes a locking button portion 532, which protrudes further beyond the retainer 510 than the other side of the locking element 530. Therefore, as described below, the locking button portion 532 can be positioned to contact the contact portion 354.

[0085] A release element 540 is inserted into a locking element 530. A portion of the release element 540 is housed within a retainer 510, while another portion of the release element 540 protrudes beyond the retainer 510. One side of the release element 540 includes a release button portion 542, which refers to the portion of the release element 540 that protrudes further beyond the retainer 510. Therefore, like the locking button portion 532, the release button portion 542 can also be positioned to selectively engage the contact portion 356.

[0086] The release element 540 includes one or more mating protrusions 544. The mating protrusions 544 are formed on the lower portion of the release element 540 and located inside the retainer 510. The mating protrusions 544 may be formed in a tapered shape. The mating protrusions 544 are configured to be inserted into the insertion portion 524.

[0087] Re-reference Figure 5 The locking assembly 500 is supported by the main valve assembly 200. The main valve assembly 200 is configured to block flow between the fuel tank side passage 111 and the tank side passage 112 as needed, and to connect the fuel tank side passage and the tank side passage. The main valve assembly 200 may include a drive plate 210, a drive spring 220, a valve 230, a sealing member 240, and a valve spring 250.

[0088] The main valve assembly 200 (specifically, the drive plate 210) supports the locking assembly 500. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the retainer 510 may be supported on the drive plate 210, and the latch 520 may be coupled to the drive plate 210. Therefore, the drive plate 210 is configured to move together with the locking assembly 500.

[0089] The drive plate 210 can serve as a reference for dividing the housing into an upper housing 120 and a lower housing 110. In other words, the drive plate 210 has a spool assembly 300 and a locking assembly 500 on its upper side, and a main valve assembly 200 on its lower side. A diaphragm 212 is connected to the periphery of the drive plate 210, and a core 310 is provided on the other side of the diaphragm 212. The diaphragm 212 prevents foreign matter from flowing into the core 310.

[0090] The drive plate 210 includes a vent 214. The vent 214 is configured to allow fluid communication between the upper side and the lower side of the drive plate 210, that is, the spool assembly 300 side is in fluid communication with the space located between the drive plate 210 and the valve 230.

[0091] Meanwhile, a mesh filter 216 is installed on the drive plate 210. Air from the spool assembly 300 or the core 310 and passing through the vent 214 is filtered by the mesh filter 216 and discharged to the outside.

[0092] The drive plate 210 is supported by a drive spring 220 disposed below the drive plate 210. The drive spring 220 is stretched when the locking assembly 500 moves upward to provide a force that can move the drive plate 210 and the locking assembly 500 upward.

[0093] Valve 230 is located below drive plate 210 and drive spring 220. When an external force (e.g., an upward force) is applied to drive plate 210, valve 230 can be separated from drive plate 210.

[0094] When the drive plate 210 and the valve 230 are separated from each other, fluid can flow between the drive plate 210 and the valve 230. For this purpose, according to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the valve 230 includes an orifice 232 formed axially in the valve 230. The orifice 232 is configured to contact the drive plate 210. When the drive plate 210 is moved away from the orifice 232, air can be circulated between the interior of the drive plate 210 and the valve 230.

[0095] Furthermore, according to an embodiment example of this disclosure, an encapsulation member 240 for maintaining the airtightness between the drive plate 210 and the aperture 232 can be provided. For example, the encapsulation member 240 can be a surface made of an airtight sealing material and integral with the drive plate 210.

[0096] Valve 230 is disposed within the lower housing 110 at a position that prevents flow between the fuel tank-side passage 111 and the tank-side passage 112. According to an embodiment example of this disclosure, the fuel tank-side passage 111 is formed above the tank-side passage 112 and is configured to close the stepped portion formed between the fuel tank-side passage 111 and the tank-side passage 112. A valve seat portion 116 may be provided in the lower housing 110, on which valve 230 is located. When valve 230 is located on the valve seat portion 116, flow between the fuel tank-side passage 111 and the tank-side passage 112 is prevented.

[0097] Furthermore, valve 230 may include a sealing member 234. The sealing member 234 is mounted on the lower end of valve 230 and configured to tightly contact valve seat portion 116. The sealing member 234 maintains an airtight seal between valve 230 and valve seat portion 116. Valve spring 250 is housed in lower housing 110 and located below valve 230. Valve spring 250 provides an upward force to valve 230.

[0098] Continue to refer to Figure 5 According to this disclosure, the isolation valve 1 can receive power from the energy storage section 600 (e.g., for an auxiliary battery in a vehicle). Specifically, the controller 700 causes current to be supplied from the energy storage section 600 to the coil 340 when needed. The core 310 and the plunger 350 are magnetized by the magnetic field generated by the supplied current, and the plunger 350 moves downward along the space 312.

[0099] The following will refer to Figures 13A to 13E and Figures 14A to 14C The operation of the locking component 500 is described in conjunction with the movement of the plunger 350.

[0100] like Figure 13A As shown, when the isolation valve 1 is in the closed position, the plunger 350 is located at the upper end of the space 312 in the core 310. When power is supplied to the isolation valve 1 from the energy storage section 600, the plunger 350 begins to move downward. As the plunger 350 moves downward, the guide pin 370 moves upward along the vertical path 1354.

[0101] like Figure 13B As shown, when the plunger 350 moves downward, the guide pin 370 moves from the lowest point of the vertical path 1354 toward the highest point of the vertical path 1354. The depth of the guide groove 354 generally decreases from the lowest point to the highest point of the vertical path 1354 by forming an inclination on the vertical path 1354. As described above, this change in depth can be absorbed by the guide pin 370 and the guide pin spring 380.

[0102] like Figure 13C and Figure 13DAs shown, when the guide pin 370 completes its movement along the vertical path 1354, the guide pin 370 reaches the highest point of the vertical path 1354. Due to the large depth of the guide pin 354 at the highest point, the guide pin 370 cannot move back to the vertical path 1354 (the guide pin 370 has already moved on this vertical path) and the guide pin moves along the inclined path 2354.

[0103] refer to Figures 14A to 14C as well as Figure 15A and Figure 15B When the plunger 350 moves downward, the locking assembly 500 is activated. Specifically, when the isolation valve 1 is in the... Figure 13A In the closed position, the plunger 350 moves downward to press the release element 540 of the locking assembly 500, thereby switching the isolation valve 1 to the open position. Specifically, the plunger 350 moves downward to compress the return spring 360, and the contact portion 356 begins to pressurize the release button portion 542 of the release element 540 (see...). Figure 14A When the release button portion 542 is continuously pressed by the contact portion 356, the mating protrusion 544 begins to insert into the insertion portion 524 of the latch 520 (see...). Figure 14B and Figure 15A As the mating protrusion 544 is inserted into the insertion portion 524, the mating protrusion pulls the latch 520 into the retainer 510. Therefore, as the bending angle of the bent portion 522 inserted into the slot 514 changes, the bent portion 522 completely disengages from the slot 514 (see...). Figure 14C and Figure 15B As the latch 520 disengages from the slot 514, the drive plate 210, which is connected to the lower part of the latch 520, moves upward by the restoring force of the drive spring 220 located below the drive plate, and the locking assembly 500 connected to the drive plate 210 also moves upward.

[0104] like Figure 13EAs shown, as described above, with the isolation valve 1 open, power is de-energized, and the plunger 350 returns to its initial position by moving upward in the space 312. The guide pin 370 is guided along the inclined path 2354, and the plunger 350 rotates via the guide pin 370 guided to the inclined path 2354, as indicated by the arrow. Thus, for example, in one reciprocating motion of the plunger 350 moving downward and upward, the guide pin 370 shown on the left side of these figures moves from the first vertical path 1354a to the second vertical path 1354b via the first inclined path 2354a. Simultaneously, during one reciprocating motion of the plunger 350, the guide pin 370 shown on the right side of these figures moves from the second vertical path 1354b to the first vertical path 1354a via the second inclined path 2354b. As the plunger 350 reciprocates, each guide pin 370 moves to the other vertical path 1354 on the opposite side, and the plunger 350 rotates approximately 180°. Therefore, after the plunger 350 has fully rotated, the contact portion 356 moves to a position that has rotated approximately 180° compared to its position before rotation.

[0105] When the contact part 356 moves to the rotated position, the locking component 500 can be operated to close the isolation valve 1.

[0106] like Figure 16A and Figure 16B As shown, when the coil 340 is re-energized through the energy storage section 600, the plunger 350 moves downward along the guide groove 354 at the position rotated 180° as described above to close the valve 230.

[0107] like Figure 16C As shown, the plunger 350 moves downward, and the contact portion 356 begins to press the locking button portion 532 of the locking element 530. As the locking button portion 532 is continuously pressed by the contact portion 356, the locking element 530 inserts the bent portion 522 into the slot 514 by spreading the bent portion 522 to both sides. Simultaneously, the mating protrusion 544 disengages from the insertion portion 524 of the latch 520. The locking element 530 presses down on the latch 520, and the bent portion 522 of the latch 520, while inserted into the slot 514, returns to a state parallel to the horizontal direction. Due to the downward movement of the locking assembly 500, the drive plate 210 is pressed downward again, the drive spring 220 is compressed, and the valve 230 moves downward and closes.

[0108] Reference Figures 17A to 17F A thorough description of the switching of isolation valve 1 from the closed state to the open state.

[0109] like Figure 17AAs shown, when the isolation valve 1 is in the closed state, the fuel tank side passage 111 and the tank side passage 112 are isolated from each other. The plunger 350 is located in the upper part of the space 312 in the core 310, and the contact portion 356 is aligned and parallel to the release button portion 542 of the release element 540 on the upper side of the release button portion 542.

[0110] refer to Figure 17B When power is supplied to coil 340, plunger 350 moves downward along space 312. As contact portion 356 and release button portion 542 of release element 540 begin to contact each other, release element 540 also begins to move downward. As locking assembly 500 is pressed, air on the upper part of diaphragm 212 moves to the outside through vent hole 214 of drive plate 210 and mesh filter 216 located on the lower part of drive plate 210.

[0111] like Figure 17C As shown, as the release element 540 gradually moves downward, the mating protrusion 544 is inserted into the insertion portion 524 of the latch 520. Through the insertion of the mating protrusion 544, the latch 520 deforms inward.

[0112] like Figure 17D As shown, when the mating protrusion 544 is fully inserted into the insertion portion 524, the latch 520 deforms into the retainer 510 and completely separates from the slot 514. Since the latch 520 of the locking assembly 500 disengages from the slot 514, the locking assembly 500 begins to receive an upward force. Furthermore, the drive plate 210 connected to the locking assembly also moves upward. The restoring force of the drive spring 220 compressed on the lower part of the drive plate 210 causes the locking assembly 500 and the drive plate 210 to move upward.

[0113] like Figure 17E As shown, as the drive plate 210 moves upward, the drive plate 210 and the valve 230 separate from each other. As the drive plate 210 moves upward via the drive spring 220, a portion of the fuel tank-side passage 111 and a portion of the tank-side passage 112 begin to vent through the orifice 232 via a passage formed between the drive plate 210 and the valve 230. As described above, this disclosure may include an orifice 232 that allows venting to gradually begin between the fuel tank-side passage 111 and the tank-side passage 112, thereby preventing a rapid pressure drop.

[0114] Simultaneously, when unlocking is completed by pressing the release element 540, the power supply to the isolation valve 1 is interrupted. When the power supply to the coil 340 is stopped, the plunger 350 begins to move upward along the space 312 via the return spring 360. As the plunger 350 moves upward, it rotates along the inclined path 2354 of the guide groove 354.

[0115] like Figure 17FAs shown, the contact portion 356 of the plunger 350, having completed its upward movement, is positioned aligned with the locking button portion 532 due to rotation. When the pressure in the fuel tank 11 is less than the force of the valve spring 250, the valve spring 250 moves upward, causing the valve 230 to lift upward, thereby fully opening the valve 230. Therefore, the fuel tank side passage 111 and the tank side passage 112 are vented.

[0116] Reference Figures 18A to 18D A comprehensive description of the switching from the open to the closed position of isolation valve 1.

[0117] exist Figure 17F In this state, the venting between fuel tank 11 and canister 12 is in the open position. At this time, the contact portion 356 is aligned with the upper part of the locking button portion 532 of the locking assembly 500.

[0118] like Figure 18A As shown, when power is supplied to coil 340, plunger 350 moves downward again, and plunger 350 begins to contact locking button portion 532. Specifically, contact portion 356 of plunger 350 begins to press locking button portion 532. This is because when isolation valve 1 moves from the closed position to the open position, plunger 350 rotates, and when plunger 350 moves linearly downward, contact portion 356 is in a state where it can contact locking button portion 532. As plunger 350 moves downward, air on the upper part of diaphragm 212 moves to the outside through vent 214 and mesh filter 216, as indicated by the arrow.

[0119] like Figure 18B As shown, the contact portion 356 moves the locking assembly 500 downward while the locking button portion 532 is continuously pressed. Therefore, the drive plate 210, which is integral with the locking assembly 500, moves downward. The sealing surface or encapsulating member 240 of the drive plate 210, while contacting the orifice of the valve 230, causes the orifice 232 of the valve 230 to be hermetically sealed. Furthermore, by pressing the locking element 530 with the contact portion 356, the mating protrusion 544 inserted into the insertion portion 524 of the latch 520 begins to disengage.

[0120] like Figure 18C As shown, plunger 350 moves to its lowest movable point. As locking button portion 532 moves to its end and the angle of the bent portion 522 of latch 520 changes, latch 520 inserts into slot 514. During this process, mating protrusion 544 retracts from insertion portion 524, and drive plate 210 presses valve 230 to fully close valve 230. Thus, isolation valve 1 completes the switching from open to closed position.

[0121] like Figure 18DAs shown, when valve 230 is in close contact with valve seat portion 116 to close valve 230, controller 700 terminates power supply from energy storage portion 600. When power supply to coil 340 is terminated, plunger 350 moves upward via return spring 360.

[0122] At the same time, the plunger 350 rotates along the inclined path 2354 while moving upward. Therefore, again, the guide pin 370 shown on the left side of the figure is located on the first vertical path 1354a, and the guide pin 370 shown on the right side of the figure returns to the second vertical path 1354b. Upon the next energization, the contact portion 356 of the plunger 350 is located above the release element 540, and the contact portion 356 and the release button portion 542 are in position... Figure 17A The alignment of the plunger 350 in the axial direction allows the valve 230 to switch from the closed state to the open state.

[0123] like Figure 19 As shown, according to this disclosure, even after power supply has ended, the isolation valve 1 can remain closed or open, thereby significantly reducing power consumption. This can help improve fuel efficiency and solve the problem of auxiliary battery discharge.

[0124] For example, a conventional isolation valve consumes approximately 4 Wh of power during operation (12 volts (V), 1 amp (A), and operates for up to 20 minutes). Conventional isolation valves require continuous power during operation. In contrast, this disclosure maintains the open state of isolation valve 1 even with very short energization times and power interruption when isolation valve 1 is open. Therefore, problems such as auxiliary battery discharge and the risk of fire due to generated heat can be solved.

[0125] This disclosure allows the use of isolation valve 1 without limiting the maximum opening time of isolation valve 1, thereby overcoming the problem that conventional isolation valves automatically close after a certain period of time.

[0126] like Figure 20 As shown, the isolation valve 1 according to this disclosure may include a two-stage opening structure to suppress or prevent rapid changes in fuel tank pressure. According to this disclosure, venting through orifice 232 is pre-emptively performed during the initial opening of the isolation valve 1 to prevent rapid changes in fuel tank pressure. This prevents problems such as blockage of the fuel tank vent valve due to a rapid decrease in pressure (rapid increase in exhaust flow) under overpressure conditions in the fuel tank 11, reduced fuel pump flow due to fuel cavitation, and flameout.

[0127] This disclosure is not limited to the foregoing exemplary embodiments and drawings, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various substitutions, modifications and alterations can be made without departing from the technical spirit of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An isolation valve, comprising: A housing, the housing including a first channel and a second channel different from the first channel; A main valve assembly, the main valve assembly including a valve disposed in the housing, wherein the valve is configured to selectively prevent fluid flow between the first channel and the second channel; A locking assembly, disposed within the housing, includes a release element configured to open the valve and a locking element configured to close the valve; and A spool assembly disposed within the housing and configured to operate the locking component, wherein the spool assembly includes: coil; Core portion, the core portion disposed inside the coil and configured to form a space; and A plunger configured to move in the space by an electromagnetic field generated by the coil and to contact the locking assembly on the open end side of the core. The plunger is further configured as follows: Linearly move from the closed end of the core toward the open end of the core, and Rotate by a preset angle as it moves from the open end toward the closed end. Either the locking element or the releasing element of the locking assembly can be pressurized selectively.

2. The isolation valve according to claim 1, in, The isolation valve is disposed between the vehicle's fuel tank and the canister, with the first channel configured to be in fluid communication with the fuel tank and the second channel configured to be in fluid communication with the canister.

3. The isolation valve according to claim 1 further comprises: A compressible return spring is provided between the plunger and the locking assembly.

4. The isolation valve according to claim 1, in, The locking component also includes: A retainer, the retainer being fixed to the core and including a groove; and A latch, which is fixed to the valve assembly, disposed inside the retainer, detachably inserted into the slot, and deformable by external force. The locking element is configured to be positioned on the latch inside the retainer and, when pressed, inserts the latch into the slot. The release element is disposed inside the locking element and configured to deform the latch to disengage the latch from the slot.

5. The isolation valve according to claim 4, in, The retainer includes a flange portion that projects radially outward from the periphery of the retainer and is configured to be fixed to the inner wall of the core.

6. The isolation valve according to claim 4, in, The latch includes: A curved portion, said curved portion being detachably inserted into said groove and configured to deform by external force; and An insertion portion, configured to receive a mating protrusion of the release element.

7. The isolation valve according to claim 4, in, The locking element includes a locking button portion that protrudes toward the closed end and is formed on a first side of the cross-section of the space. The release element includes a release button portion that protrudes toward the closed end and is formed on a second side opposite to the first side.

8. The isolation valve according to claim 7, in, The plunger includes a contact portion configured to protrude only from a portion of the plunger's surface facing the open end, and the contact portion is also configured to press the locking button portion or the releasing button portion. The size of the contact portion corresponds to the size of the locking button portion and the size of the releasing button portion.

9. The isolation valve according to claim 8, comprising: A pair of sidewall holes are provided on the core and face each other; A pair of guide pin springs are respectively disposed on each of the side wall holes; as well as A pair of guide pins, configured as follows: Guide the movement of the plunger. Each of the aforementioned sidewall holes is respectively disposed in the pair of guide pin springs to compress the pair of guide pin springs, and It protrudes toward the inside of the core to move on the plunger.

10. The isolation valve according to claim 9, in, The plunger includes a guide groove recessed from the surface of the plunger, wherein the guide pin moves along the guide groove.

11. The isolation valve according to claim 10, in, The guide groove includes: The first vertical path is formed in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the plunger; The second vertical path is set to face the first vertical path; The first inclined path is a path extending between the highest point of the first vertical path and the lowest point of the second vertical path; and The second inclined path is a path extending between the highest point of the second vertical path and the lowest point of the first vertical path.

12. The isolation valve according to claim 11, in, The guide pin is configured to move along either the first vertical path or the second vertical path as the plunger moves from the closed end to the open end, and The guide pin is further configured to move along the first inclined path or the second inclined path as the plunger moves from the open end to the closed end.

13. The isolation valve according to claim 12, in, The valve assembly includes a drive plate configured to be coupled to the latch to move with the latch, and the drive plate is disengaged to contact the valve.

14. The isolation valve according to claim 13, in, The drive plate includes a sealing surface that can be disengaged into an orifice formed on the valve, and The orifice is configured to allow the first channel and the second channel to be in fluid communication through the valve.

15. The isolation valve of claim 14, further comprising a drive spring disposed between the drive plate and the valve and configured to provide a moving force to the drive plate.

16. The isolation valve according to claim 14, in, The valve includes: a first position in which the valve contacts a valve seat portion disposed between the first channel and the second channel to prevent fluid from flowing between the first channel and the second channel; and a second position in which the valve is spaced apart from the valve seat portion to allow fluid to flow between the first channel and the second channel.

17. The isolation valve of claim 16, further comprising a valve spring configured to provide a force between the valve seat portion and the inner wall of the housing for separating the valve from the valve seat portion.

18. The isolation valve according to claim 2, comprising: A chamber formed on one side of the housing and configured to be in fluid communication with the fuel tank via a flow path that selectively blocks fluid flow, the chamber including an exhaust port; and A pressure regulating valve assembly, housed within the chamber, includes a positive pressure valve and a negative pressure valve. The positive pressure valve is configured to prevent fluid from flowing between the flow path and the chamber. The negative pressure valve is disposed within the positive pressure valve to allow fluid to flow through the interior of the positive pressure valve in the flow path when open. Specifically, when an overpressure exceeding a preset positive pressure is formed in the fuel tank, the positive pressure valve is opened, and Specifically, when an underpressure exceeding a preset negative pressure is formed in the fuel tank, the negative pressure valve is opened.

19. The isolation valve of claim 13 further includes a diaphragm, the diaphragm being mounted between the drive plate and the core and configured to prevent foreign matter from flowing into the core.

20. The isolation valve according to claim 19, comprising: A vent hole that allows the core to be in fluid communication with the first channel and extends through the drive plate; as well as A mesh filter is disposed in the vent.

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